America West Airlines, (NYSE: AWA) joined
by three other major U.S. airlines, today announced an alliance agreement with
Air China, the largest airline in China.  The agreement will provide for
connecting service from China to America West`s hubs in Phoenix and Las Vegas.
In addition to codesharing, the agreement will allow for reciprocal frequent
flyer program participation.  Pending government approval, the agreement is
scheduled for initiation this fall.

“We are pleased to form this alliance with China`s largest carrier,” said
Mike Smith, senior vice president, marketing and sales.  “Our strong West
Coast service will allow convenient, seamless connections for China-based
passengers to Phoenix and Las Vegas. “

The three other major carriers which signed alliance agreements today with
Air China are Northwest Airlines, Continental Airlines and Alaska Airlines.
America West has existing alliance agreements with Continental and Northwest.
 
America West Airlines, the nation`s ninth largest carrier, serves more
than 90 destinations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico offering travelers the
same full-service product they have come to expect from other national
airlines but with low fares.  America West ranked number one in baggage
handling as recorded in the 1997 Air Travel Consumer Report published by the
U.S. Department of Transportation.

America West Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of America West
Holdings Corporation, an aviation and travel services company with annual
sales of $1.9 billion.

This press release, as well as releases issued in the past year by America
West Holdings and its affiliates, can be accessed on the America West Internet
site at http://www.americawest.com.

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